Pick-up and lay-down system and method

ABSTRACT

A self supporting pick-up and lay-down pipe handling system and method provides apparatuses and methods including a telescopingly extendable pipe trough which is telescopingly extendable from a lift frame, a lift frame movable by extendable lifts, and a movable lift frame with a conveyor system. The lift frame is preferably pivotally moveable with respect to a support. A rotating mechanism may be utilized which is operable for rotating the pipe trough to either lateral side for unloading and/or loading purposes. A lift frame with slidable powered lift heads is provided to raise and lower pipes from a pipe rack to the pipe trough. A pivotal guide member on the slidable powered lift head to pivot into a guiding position for guiding pipe from the lift frame onto the pipe trough.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/754,160, filed on Jan. 9, 2004.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to apparatuses and methodsoperable for automatically lifting and lowering oilfield tubulars and,more particularly, is especially suitable for lifting large diametertubulars of heavy weight or other tubulars which are especially prone tolateral impact and friction damage during transport due to theirsignificant weight.

BACKGROUND ART

Prior art oil field pipe handling systems and methods are well known forlifting and lowering drill pipe and casing to and from pipe racks, toand from the catwalk, and then onto the rig floor, and/or for stackingthe pipe at other locations adjacent to or separated from the rig floor.However, the prior art systems have problems relating to damage of thetubulars during this process. Moreover, prior art systems are limited intheir adaptability to the path of transportation typically to and fromeach particular rig floor, catwalk, and pipe rack arrangement.

Numerous U.S. Patents show various attempts to provide suitable devices,methods, and machines for handling drilling tubulars of various typesand under various work situations and for various work environments.However, the prior art does not provide a suitable means for movingpipes whereby they arrive at the rig floor virtually withoutexperiencing sharp lateral impacts and/or friction damage to sensitiveareas such as threads. For instance, heavy tubulars such as casing, dueto their very great weight and large diameter may be easily damaged bylateral impacts and/or even by impacts to thread protectors duringmovement from the pipe rack, to the cat walk, and then to the drillfloor. The transportation from a pipe rack to the rig floor ofteninvolves an irregular and difficult path for moving heavy items.Moreover, this pathway will often vary depending on the particulars ofconstruction for each drilling, workover, offshore, and/or onshore rig.

It would be desirable to provide a machine which will handle all typesof pipes and which adapt to the many different transportation pathways,for transporting tubulars from pipe racks to the rig floor withoutdamage even to extremely heavy, large, tubulars and/or to other tubularsprone to damage due to sharp lateral impacts or impacts to the sensitivethreaded ends thereof.

Consequently, those of skill in the art will appreciate the presentinvention which addresses the above and other problems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature and objects of the presentinvention, reference should be had to the following detaileddescription, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich like elements are given the same or analogous reference numbersand wherein:

FIG. 1 is an elevational view, partially in phantom lines, of onepossible embodiment of a system and method with a pipe just mountedthereon for movement to the rig floor from the catwalk in accord withthe present invention;

FIG. 2 is an elevational view, partially in phantom lines, of theembodiment shown in FIG. 1 as it initially lifts and adjusts in heightfor a particular rig floor;

FIG. 3 is an elevational view, partially in phantom lines, of theembodiment shown in FIG. 1 wherein an entire trough for laterallysupporting and carrying the pipe extends outwardly from a carrier thepipe so as to prevent any friction and/or lateral impacts acting on thepipe as the pipe moves in the direction of the rig floor;

FIG. 4 is an elevational view, partially in phantom lines, of theembodiment shown in FIG. 1 wherein the trough is now at the rig floor;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view, partially in phantom lines, of theembodiment of FIG. 1 wherein a pipe is shown in various stages ofmovement from a pipe rack or other pipe support to a slidable trough inaccord with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view, partially in phantom lines, of thesystem in FIG. 5 illustrating that the trough can be tilted or rotatedin either direction as desired for loading and unloading;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a system andmethod for movement of a tubular between the rig floor and a pipestorage location in accord with the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 in asubstantially folded position in accord with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is an elevated side view of one embodiment of a scissor lift inaccord with the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 as itinitially lifts and adjusts in height for a particular rig floor inaccord with the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a system andmethod for movement of a tubular between the rig floor and a pipestorage location in accord with the present invention;

FIG. 10A is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 in asubstantially folded position in accord with the present invention; and

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 as itinitially lifts and adjusts in height for a particular rig floor inaccord with the present invention.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND PREFERRED MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings and, more particularly, to FIG. 1, FIG. 2,FIG. 3, and FIG. 4, there is shown a series of elevational views of apresently preferred embodiment of pipe handling system 10 duringoperation. System 10 gently guides pipe 12, which may be a very largediameter pipe such as surface casing, or drill pipe, or any other typeof pipe, from catwalk 14. Catwalk 14, as used herein may refer to anyother platform or lower location which leads up to rig floor 16. Rigfloor 16, as used herein, may be a drilling rig floor, workover rigfloor, derrick floor, pipe storage location, or any other location whichis generally elevated with respect to a lower position, such as 14catwalk, the pipe rack, or other pipe storage locations. A rig may be anoffshore rig, workover rig, drilling rig, and the like, for working withwell bores. Special apparatus for placing pipe 12 onto moveable trough18 or removing pipe 12 from moveable trough 18 to/from another locationsuch as a pipe rack or lower location or possibly an upper location, arenot shown in this series of figures but presently preferred andinnovative features are shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, as discussedhereinafter.

As seen in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, trough 18 preferably has a cross-sectionthat is generally smooth with a relatively wide sloping surface with agenerally lower center 20 into which the pipe is guided by gravity. Notethat trough 18 is preferably relatively wide and therefore can handlevery large pipe. The entire trough or substantially the entire lateralwidth is preferably slightly V-shaped, curved as desired, or configuredto thereby gently direct pipe 12 to center 20. In a presently preferredembodiment, trough 18 is not planar or flat but gradually sloping alongits entire lateral width for guiding purposes. Because of this gradualsloping, if desired, multiple drill pipes (which are generally muchsmaller in diameter than some types of casing, e.g., surface casing)could be placed on trough 18 for simultaneous movement, if desired.

Moreover, trough 18 is preferably smooth along its axial length withoutbumps, rivets, bolts, ridges or the like which could cause impacts whenpipe 12 is placed on or removed from trough 18. Thus, mechanicalconnections to trough 18 may be made below trough 18 to avoid a roughsurface, if desired.

In the operating position of system 10 shown in FIG. 1, pipe 12 issubstantially parallel to trough 18. Pipe 12 is also substantiallyparallel to platform 26. Pipe 12 is also substantially parallel to thesurface of catwalk 14 or other surface from which pipe 12 is to bemoved. Before being picked-up, or after being layed-down, pipe 12 isalso typically in the same plane as the pipe rack and/or ground 15 whichmay be located below or adjacent to catwalk 14. Trough 18 is slidablyextendable and may not actually be connected directly to platform 26.Trough 18 is supported by lift frame 30 which may be pivotally and/orslidably pivotally mounted with respect to platform 26. As a roughcomparison, trough 18 extends from lift frame 30 like a fireman's ladderextends outwardly. Accordingly, trough 18 is preferably not rigidlymounted and has no rearward fixed connection to platform 26. The lengthof trough 18 may or may not reach to or past platform end 28, asdesired. Platform 26 rests on catwalk 14 or any other desired surfacewhich will typically be below rig floor 16 although theoreticallyslidable trough 18 could move pipe 12 horizontally to rig floor 16 ifrig floor 16 were substantially parallel or just below the plane ofmovement of pipe 12. Trough 18 preferably has foot member 32 positionedthereon to prevent movement of pipe 12 away from rig floor 16. Footmember 32 preferably engages thread protector 24 of pipe 12. If desired,foot member 32 may be moveable and/or adjustable.

In FIG. 2, it can be seen that lift frame 30 begins to angle upwardlytowards the direction of rig floor 16. Connection 34 between lift frame30 and platform 26 is preferably pivotally mounted but may be of manydifferent types as desired. As an example, pivot members 34 shown inFIG. 5 and FIG. 6 may be utilized. If desired, for instance, the rear oflift frame 30 could also be raised upwardly from platform 26. However,in one presently preferred embodiment, a pair of hydraulic paralleljacks with hydraulic jack 36 shown in the foreground is utilized to movethe end of lift frame 30 closest to rig floor 16 upwardly. Hydraulicjack 36 is preferably pivotally mounted with respect to both lift frame30 and platform 26 and may be mechanically interconnected therebetweenin a variety of ways, as desired. Moreover, various types of mechanicalconnections and other types or placements of lift devices such ashydraulic jack 36 may be utilized as desired with the net effect beingto repeatedly raise and/or lower lift frame 30, trough 18, and, ofcourse, pipe 12 during operation of system 10. Pipe 12 is prevented fromsliding downwardly in trough 18 as lift frame 30 becomes more inclinedby foot 32.

In FIG. 3, trough 18 begins to extend outwardly from lift frame 30.While many possible mechanical arrangements may be utilized to performthe extension function, in a presently preferred embodiment, hydraulicjack with piston 38 and cylinder 40 may be mounted in lift frame 30 forthis purpose. Cylinder 40 may be secured to foot 32 and/or otherportions of trough 18 such that as cylinder 40 is hydraulically extendedfrom piston 38 trough 18 extends outwardly from lift frame 30. Cylinder40 and piston 38 may be provided with support elements and/or guidemembers that support and/or guide operational movement of cylinder 40and piston 38. Interlocking connections may be utilized as desired andpositioned as desired to provide support between cylinder 40, piston 38,lift frame 30 and trough 18.

FIG. 4 shows trough 18 extended to the desired position. It will benoted that pipe 12 has never moved, relative to trough 18, and hassimply sat within trough 18 as trough 18 extends from lift frame 30.Thus, there have been virtually no lateral impacts or friction damage topipe 12 during the extension/retraction movement of trough 18 withrespect to lift frame 30. The rig crew will now typically engage end 22of pipe 12 with the rig blocks or other lifting means so that threadprotector 24 of pipe 12 slides along the smooth surface of trough 18until suspended in air for assembly to a tubular string.

Preferably system 10 is sized so as to be easily trucked to a location.In other words, system 10 is preferably transportable from rig to rigrather than requiring system 10 to be incorporated into the rig.However, it should be appreciated that, if so desired, system 10 can bemore permanently attached or otherwise located at the rig site. System10 can be remotely controlled from either rig floor 16 or the ground, orother locations, as desired. Adjustable stops may be utilized fordifferent size pipe joints and to start and stop operation at desiredlocations automatically. For reference of one possible embodiment andshown only for comparison purposes, trough 18 can accommodate varioussize tubulars and pipe. Here, as illustrated in FIG. 5 pipe 12 is alarge diameter casing while pipe 13 relatively smaller diameter casing.

As discussed in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, trough 18 is also pivotal along itsaxial length axis by hydraulic members for loading and unloading toeither lateral side of trough 18. When in the lowered, contracted,position wherein trough 18 is fully collapsed or retracted as shown inFIG. 1, then trough 18 is supported by guide rails 39 and correspondingslots 41 on either side of trough 18 and one or more center braces 42 oflift frame 30 (see outer surface of lift frame 30 in FIG. 1-FIG. 4).Lift frame 30 may also preferably comprise outer support rails, such asouter rails 44 and 46. Trough 18 may be mounted to lift frame outerrails 44 and 46 by greased slidable connections, rollers, suitablypositioned interlocking telescoping joints and/or other suitablypositioned mechanical means whereby relative extension between twomembers is accomplished during the operation thereof.

When positioned in the lowered position, as shown from the side in FIG.1, then trough 18 may be tilted or rotated in either direction bymultiple hydraulic lifts on either side of trough 18 two of which areshown in FIG. 5 and 6, namely hydraulic lifts 48 and 50. Hydrauliclifts, such as lifts 48 and 50 are secured to platform 26 which may reston catwalk 14 or other suitable support, such as the ground. When trough18 is in the lowered, retracted position, shown in FIG. 1, then the endsof fixed position hydraulic lifts, such as the ends of lifts 48 and 50,align with receptacles such as receptacles 52 and 54. Thus, preferablywhen in the lowered, collapsed position, trough 18 can be rotating asshown in FIG. 6, such as for unloading pipe 12, by extending at leastone of hydraulic lifts 48 and 50. Each side of trough 18 will preferablyhave several hydraulic lifts and the lifts on each side act in concertto rotate trough 18. It will be best understood from viewing FIG. 5 andFIG. 6 that trough 18 can be rotated in either direction to permitunloading and/or loading of pipe from either side of trough 18 bycontrolling the relative amounts of extension of hydraulic lifts 48 and50. It should be appreciated that other rotating mechanisms can beutilized to rotate or tilt the trough 18 for loading and unloadingtubulars. Such mechanisms could include, but are not limited to, rackand pinions, gears, motors, belts/pulleys, chains, cables, manualrotation, or any combination thereof.

In one embodiment, pipe lift frame 62 preferably aids in thestabilization of system 10. In this embodiment, pipe lift frame 62 isfixedly attached to system 10. It should be understood that the exactattachment point for lift frame 62 can vary depending on theconfiguration parameters at the rig including, but not limited to, thelocation of the pipe rack and any space limitations. It should furtherbe understood that pipe lift frame 62 can also be independent of system10 and serve primarily to lift pipe 12, or pipe 13, to the trough 18.Still further, it should be appreciated that pipe lift frame 62 can helpstabilize system 10 whether it is fixedly attached or detachablymounted.

In another aspect of the invention, hydraulic loader 60 may be utilizedfor loading and unloading pipe with respect to trough 18. While onlyhydraulic loader 60, and only one pipe lift frame 62, is shown, it willbe understood that multiple hydraulic loaders 60 may be utilized tosupport the pipe along its length. Preferably, at least two hydraulicloaders 60 may be utilized. Pipe lift frame 62 may extend from edge 64of platform 26 to the ground or to a lower floor and will preferablyextend through a pipe rack (not shown) or the like where the pipe to beloaded/unloaded is provided. The pipe rack may be at the same horizontallevel as catwalk 14, or lower, and may even be significantly lower.Conceivably the pipe rack could also be higher but then lifting member66 would need to be reoriented. In the normal case where the pipe rackis lower, when powered pipe lifter 66 is lowered beneath the horizontallevel of pipes on the pipe rack, a pipe can be rolled in positionagainst pipe lift frame 62. When pipe lifter 66 comes upwardly, then thepipe, such as pipe 12A shown in FIG. 5, is trapped between pipe liftframe 62 by lifting surface 68 on powered pipe lifter 66 and is thenraised upwardly to trough 18.

In a preferred embodiment, pipe lifter 66 comprises a pivotal pipe guide70 which follows track 72, to gently guide pipe 12A onto rail 74 andinto trough 18. Pivotal guide 70, rail 74, and trough 18 are aligned toprevent any lateral bumps or shocks to the pipe. In a reverse manner,pipe is unloaded from trough 18.

Thus, in operation to move pipe from a pipe rack to rig floor 16,powered pipe lifter 66 is lowered, a pipe is rolled against pipe liftframe 62. Powered pipe lifter 66 moves the pipe upwardly and rolls itgently onto trough 18 where it comes to rest in bottom groove 20. Liftframe 30 is then lifted upwardly, and trough 18 slides outwardly withrespect to lift frame 30. To unload pipes, the reverse process takesplace, except that the pipe can be rolled off of trough 18 by hydrauliclifts 48 and 50 to either side of trough 18, as desired. For instance,pipe lift frame 62 may be positioned on the opposite side of trough 18than as shown.

The particular stopping points for each moveable element such as trough18, powered pipe lifter 66, lift frame 30, and the like, can be set bycontrols, software, and suitable sensors and/or by mechanically moveablestop means, as desired, so that it is not necessary to manually adjustthe stopping points for each cycle of operation.

FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of the pipe handling system 10.Here, system 10 comprises a rear frame 19, which supports trough 18 andpipe 12 when trough 18 is in a home position. It should be appreciatedthat trough 18 comprises a foot member 32 or a similar member that canengage the thread protector 24 of pipe 12. It should be furtherappreciated that the pipe engaging member, such as foot member 32 mayalso directly engage the pipe 12, such as when no thread protector 24 isutilized. As described hereinabove, trough 18 can be further supportedby rails 44, 46 which allow for slidable contact with trough 18.However, as can be seen in Fig. 7, rails 44 46, in this embodiment,extend the length of or at least part of the length, as desired, of therear frame 19. Rear frame 19 is preferably supported by rear scissorlift 11 and a front scissor lift 12. However, if desired, additionalscissor lifts may be used or only one scissor lift may be used. It isforeseen that the positioning of the one or more scissor lifts would bein accordance to designs to allow for the proper support of the rearmain frame 19, the trough 18, and any tubulars 12 which may be carriedtherein. FIG. 8 illustrates a typical scissor lift preferred for thisembodiment. However, various designs of scissor lifts or similarvertical type lifts can be used without departing from the scope of theinstant invention. The scissor lifts 11, 17 can be attached to the rearframe 19 in a variety of conventional means and can be permanentlyattached such as by, but not limited to, welding or they can beremovably attached.

Still referring to FIG. 7, the rear frame 19 is connected or joined to afront frame 21 at a pivot point 23 and is connected to subframe 43 at asecond pivot point 45. Pivot points 23, 45 may be a variety ofconnections including, but not limited to, pins, shafts, bolts, and anyother connection that allows relative movement between rear frame 19 andsubframe 43 (pivot point 45) and between rear frame 19 and front frame21 (pivot point 23). Preferably, front frame 21 also comprises a rail 47or rails 47, 49 to slidably support trough 18 as it moves from its homeposition to the rig floor 16. It should be appreciated that if the railsare only on rear frame 19, the carried tubular 12 should reachsufficiently onto the rig floor 16 to be handled by the rig personnel orequipment. Further if only rails 44, 46, on rear frame 19 are utilized,the trough 18 must be sufficiently supported, by rear frame 19 and rails44, 46 so as to reach the rig floor 16 without being obstructed by thesurface of front frame 21. Thus, it is foreseeable that front frame 21may comprise a complete or partial support or guide surface for thetrough 18 as opposed to rails 47, 49.

FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment wherein front frame 21 can be foldedso as to rest above rear frame 19. Those skilled in the art wouldrecognize that such an embodiment would allow for a more compact system10 particularly from a portability perspective wherein transportationbetween rigs can be by truck, trailer, barge, or other method.

FIG. 9 illustrates the system 10 with the scissor lifts 11, 17 extended.As can be seen, the scissor lifts 11, 17 extend so as to move the rearframe 19 so as to be substantially in the same plane as front frame 21.Preferably, the rear frame pivots about pivot point 23 until rails 44,46 and rails 47, 49 are aligned. In this position, trough 18 and anytubular 12 contained therein can be smoothly advance from the homeposition to the rig floor 16.

In operation when tubulars are required on the rig floor 16, system 10is erected or placed in a desired location where pipes are being storednear the rig. Preferably this is at or near the rig catwalk 14. However,the placement of system 10 can vary depending on the rig location orpipe storage layout. The scissor lifts 11, 17 can be utilized to adjustthe height of the rear frame 19 so as to correspond to the height of thecatwalk or the pipe storage rack. Preferably, front frame 21 ispositioned so as to extend to the V-door 35. It should be appreciated,that depending on the rig design, front frame 21 may rest against theV-door 35 or may extend to the rig floor 16. In cases where the frontframe 21 rests against the V-door 35, it should be appreciated that thefront end 37, of the front frame 21 comprises a roller or other memberthat allows for movement of the front frame relative and against theV-door 35. The trough 18, which rotates as described hereinabove (FIGS.5 and 6) to accept at least one tubular 12. Next, the one or morescissor lifts 11, 17 are actuated so as to raise the rear frame 19 so asto be at substantially the same angle as the front frame 21. Next, thetrough 18, carrying at least one tubular 12 is moved from the home orloading/unloading position to the rig floor 16 where the tubular can beretrieved. It should be appreciated that a variety of methods can beused to move trough 18 along the rear frame 19 and the front frame 21including, but not limited to, chain drives, cable drives, tracks, cogs,pistons, and the like. After the tubular 12 is removed from the trough18, the trough is then returned to the home position, the scissor lifts11, 17 retract and bring the rear frame 19 back to a more horizontalposition aligned with the catwalk 14 or a pipe rack so that anothertubular 12 may be loaded into the trough 18 as desired. When pipe istripped out of the hole or otherwise required to be removed from the rigfloor 16, the operation of system 10 is essentially reversed. Namely,with the scissor lifts 11, 17 extended and the trough 18 moved to therig floor 16, the tubular or tubulars 12 to be removed are placed intothe trough 18. Next, the trough is returned to its home position, thescissor lifts 11, 17 are retracted and the pipe is rolled out of thetrough 18 as described hereinabove (FIGS. 5 and 6).

FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of the pipe handling system 10.Here, system 10 comprises a rear frame 29, which supports a conveyorsystem 53 and pipe 12 when conveyor system 53 is in a home position. Itshould be appreciated that conveyor system 53 comprises a foot member 32a or a similar member that can engage the thread protector 24 of pipe12. It should be further appreciated that the pipe engaging member, suchas foot member 32 may also directly engage the pipe 12, such as when nothread protector 24 is utilized. The conveyor system 53 may be a varietyof conventional or specially designed conveyors including, but notlimited to a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt can be designed so as toonly extend the length of the rear frame 29 so long as the carriedtubular 12 reaches sufficiently onto the rig floor 16 to be handled bythe rig personnel or equipment. The conveyor belt can also extend thelength of both the rear frame 29 and the front frame 31. Otherembodiments may utilize separate conveyor belts one rear frame 29 and aseparate one for front frame 31. It should be appreciated that when theconveyor 53 only extends the length of rear frame 29, the tubular 12must be sufficiently supported by rear frame 29 so as to not scrape ordrag along front frame 31 so as to protect the tubular from any damage,marks, or scratches. As with the trough 18, the tubular 12 is preferablystationary with respect to the conveyor system 53 and the foot member 32a.

Rear frame 29 is preferably supported by rear scissor lift 27. However,if desired, additional scissor lifts may be used. It is foreseen thatthe positioning of the one or more scissor lifts would be in accordanceto designs to allow for the proper support of the rear main frame 29,the conveyor system 53, and any tubulars 12 which may be carriedtherein. FIG. 8 illustrates a typical scissor lift. However, variousdesign of scissor lifts or similar vertical type lifts can be usedwithout departing from the scope of the instant invention. The scissorlift 27 can be attached to the rear frame 19 in a variety ofconventional means and can be permanently attached such as by, but notlimited to, welding or it can be removably attached. Preferably, scissorlift 27 is positioned on the catwalk 14 but can also be positioned onthe ground 15 or other location as desired.

Still referring to FIG. 10, the rear frame 29 is connected or joined toa front frame 31 at a second pivot point 25 and is pivotal about a firstpivot point 51. Pivot points 25, 51 may be a variety of connectionsincluding, but not limited to, pins, shafts, bolts, and any otherconnection that allows relative movement between rear frame 29 andscissor lift 27 (pivot point 51) and between rear frame 29 and frontframe 31 (pivot point 25).

FIG. 10A illustrates an embodiment wherein front frame 31 can be foldedso as to rest above rear frame 29. Those skilled in the art wouldrecognize that such an embodiment would allow for a more compact system10 particularly from a portability perspective wherein transportationbetween rigs can be bu truck, trailer, barge, or other transportationmethod.

FIG. 11 illustrates the system 10 with the scissor lift 27 extended. Ascan be seen, the scissor lift 27 extends so as to move the rear frame 29so as to be substantially in the same plane as front frame 31.Preferably, the rear frame 29 pivots about pivot point 25 until italigns with front frame 31 to provide for even movement of the conveyor53. In this position, conveyor 53 and any tubular 12 contained thereincan be smoothly advance from the home position to the rig floor 16.

In operation when tubulars are required on the rig floor 16, system 10is erected or placed in a desired location where pipes are being storednear the rig. Preferably this is at or near the rig catwalk 14. However,the placement of system 10 can vary depending on the rig location orpipe storage layout. The scissor lift 27 can be utilized to adjust theheight of the rear frame 29 so as to correspond to the height of thecatwalk 14 or the pipe storage rack. Preferably, front frame 31 ispositioned so as to extend to the V-door 35. It should be appreciated,that depending on the rig design, front frame 31 may rest against theV-door 35 or may extend to the rig floor 16. In cases where the frontframe 31 rests against the V-door 35, it should be appreciated that thefront end 33, of the front frame 31 comprises a roller or other memberthat allows for movement of the front frame 31 relative to and/oragainst the V-door 35. Load arms (not shown) of the pipe rack areactuated to move at least one tubular 12 onto the conveyor 53. Next, thescissor lift 27 is actuated so as to raise the rear frame 29 so as to beat substantially the same angle as the front frame 31. Next, theconveyor 53, carrying at least one tubular 12 is moved from the home orloading/unloading position to the rig floor 16 where the tubular 12 canbe retrieved. It should be appreciated that a variety of methods can beused to move conveyor 53 along the rear frame 29 and the front frame 31including, but not limited to, endless belts, cogs, pistons, cables, andthe like. After the tubular 12 is removed from the conveyor 53, theconveyor 53 is then returned to the home position, the scissor lift 27retracts and brings the rear frame 29 back to a more horizontal positionaligned with the catwalk 14 or a pipe rack so that another tubular 12may be loaded into the conveyor 53 as desired. When pipe is tripped outof the hole or otherwise required to be removed from the rig floor 16,the operation of system 10 is essentially reversed. Namely, with thescissor lift 27 extended and the conveyor 53 moved to the rig floor 16,the tubular or tubulars 12 to be removed are placed onto the conveyor53. Next, the conveyor 53 is returned to its home position, the scissorlift 27 is retracted and the pipe is pushed off of the conveyor 53 bythe pipe rack loading arms (not shown) or kicker arms (not shown). Itshould be understood that different rigs may have different pipe rakingand pipe manipulation equipment. Therefore, the movement of the pipe 12onto the conveyor 53 may vary and the members which move the tubulars 12may be integral with the pipe handling system 10, the rig pipe rack,independently set up, manually operated by rig personnel, or anycombination thereof. It should be appreciated that the conveyor system53 may comprise additional guides and/rails to prevent the tubular 12from rolling or otherwise coming off the conveyor 53. Further, theconveyor 53 can be shaped or configured so as to provide a trough orother lowered center to allow the tubular to be retained within theconveyor system 53. It should also be noted that either or both theconveyor system or the trough system can comprise additional sensorsand/or stops which limit the travel of the tubular 12, the lifts, theframe assemblies, and any other moving parts. Further, the operation ofthe pipe handling system 10 can be further controlled by computersystem, radio controls, or any variety of control schemes adaptable tomachinery operation and control.

It may be seen from the preceding description that a new and improvedself supporting pipe pick-up and lay-down system and method has beenprovided. Although various embodiment may contact parts of the rig, theself supporting pipe handling system described herein does not rely onattachment to the rig as a means of supporting the system 10 while inoperation. Although very specific examples have been described anddisclosed, the invention is considered to comprise and is intended tocomprise any equivalent structure and may be constructed in manydifferent ways to function and operate in the general manner asexplained hereinbefore. Accordingly, it is noted that the embodiment ofthe new and improved pipe pick-up and lay-down system and methoddescribed herein in detail for exemplary purposes is of course subjectto many different variations in structure, design, application andmethodology. Because many varying and different embodiments may be madewithin the scope of the inventive concept(s) herein taught, and becausemany modifications may be made in the embodiment herein detailed inaccordance with the descriptive requirements of the law, it is to beunderstood that the details herein are to be interpreted as illustrativeand not in a limiting sense.

1. A self supporting pipe handling machine for moving at least oneoilfield tubular with respect to a rig floor, said pipe handling machinecomprising: an elongate moveable trough, said elongate moveable troughhaving a first lateral side and a second lateral side, said elongatemoveable trough having a cross-sectional shape for receiving at leastone oilfield tubular between said first lateral side and said secondlateral side; a first frame assembly having a longitudinal axis, whereinsaid elongate moveable trough is at least partially supported by saidfirst frame assembly; said elongate moveable trough being moveable toand from a first position away from said rig floor and a second positionadjacent said rig floor; one or more powered units for raising andlowering said first frame assembly toward and away from said rig floor;a rotating mechanism for rotating said elongate moveable trough, saidrotating mechanism being operable for rotating one lateral side to ahigher elevation than the other lateral side; and a second frameassembly having a longitudinal axis, wherein said one or more poweredunits raises said first frame assembly into substantial alignment ofsaid longitudinal axis of said first frame assembly and saidlongitudinal axis of said second frame assembly.
 2. The pipe handlingmachine of claim 1, wherein said pipe handling machine is operable froma remote location.
 3. The pipe handling machine of claim 1, wherein saidrotating mechanism is operable for rotating said elongate moveabletrough to thereby unload an oilfield tubular laterally from saidelongate moveable trough.
 4. The pipe handling machine of claim 1,wherein said one or more powered units are scissor lifts.
 5. The pipehandling machine of claim 1, wherein a V-door is in association withsaid rig floor, and wherein said second frame assembly moves along saidV-door.
 6. The pipe handling machine of claim 1, wherein said elongatemoveable trough moves along both said first frame assembly and saidsecond frame assembly.
 7. A self supporting pipe handling machine formoving at least one oilfield tubular with respect to a rig floor, saidpipe handling machine comprising: a conveyor system having at least onemember to contact said at least one oilfield tubular; a first frameassembly having a longitudinal axis, wherein said conveyor system is atleast partially supported by said first frame assembly; said at leastone member of said conveyor system being moveable between a firstposition and a second position with respect to said rig floor; one ormore powered units for raising and lowering said first frame assemblytoward and away from said rig floor; and a second frame assembly havinga longitudinal axis, wherein said one or more powered units raises saidfirst frame assembly into substantial alignment of said longitudinalaxis of said first frame assembly and said longitudinal axis of saidsecond frame assembly.
 8. The pipe handling machine of claim 7, whereinsaid pipe handling machine is operable from a location remote from thepipe handling machine.
 9. The pipe handling machine of claim 7, whereinsaid one or more powered units are scissor lifts.
 10. The pipe handlingmachine of claim 7, wherein a V-door is in association with said rigfloor, and wherein said second frame assembly moves along said V-door.11. The pipe handling machine of claim 7, wherein said at least onemember of said conveyor system moves along both said first frameassembly and said second frame assembly.
 12. A self supporting pipehandling machine for moving at least one oilfield tubular with respectto a rig floor, said pipe handling machine comprising: a lift frame;said lift frame further comprising a first subframe having alongitudinal axis and a second subframe having a longitudinal axis; oneor more powered units for raising said first subframe with respect tosaid rig floor, wherein said raising substantially aligns the respectivelongitudinal axises of said first and said second subframe; an elongatemoveable trough supported by said lift frame, said elongate moveabletrough being axially extendable and retractable with respect to saidlift frame, said elongate moveable trough being shaped internally forreceiving and supporting said at least one oilfield tubular; and one ormore powered units for axially moving said elongate moveable trough withrespect to said lift frame.
 13. The pipe handling machine of claim 12,wherein said oilfield tubular is moveable toward or away from said rigfloor by said elongate moveable trough with little or no axial slidingmovement occurring between an oilfield tubular carried by said elongatemoveable trough and said elongate moveable trough while said elongatemoveable trough operates to move towards or away from said rig floor.14. The pipe handling machine of claim 12, further comprising a troughfoot member mounted to an end portion of elongate moveable trough forsupporting an end of an oilfield tubular positioned in said trough. 15.The pipe handling machine of claim 14, wherein said trough foot memberis fixed in position with respect to said elongate moveable trough whensaid elongate moveable trough is moving with respect to said lift frame.16. The pipe handling machine of claim 14, wherein said trough footmember is movably mounted and wherein said trough foot member isadjustable to position varied length tubulars with respect to saidelongate moveable trough.
 17. A method for picking up or laying down atleast one oilfield tubular with respect to a rig floor, comprising:positioning at least one oil field tubular on a carrier; raising atleast a portion of a frame assembly at least partially supporting saidcarrier, said frame assembly having a first subframe and a secondsubframe, wherein said raising step substantially aligns said firstsubframe and said second subframe in substantially the same plane; andmoving said carrier with respect to said frame assembly toward or awayfrom the rig floor.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein said carrier isan elongate movable member.
 19. The method of claim 17, wherein saidcarrier is a conveyor system.
 20. The method of claim 17, furthercomprising: mounting one or more lift members to a position adjacentsaid carrier; actuating said one or more lift members to move at least aportion of said first subframe in a vertical direction; and moving saidcarrier across at least a portion of said first subframe and said secondsubframe, wherein said carrier is at least partially supported by saidfirst subframe and/or said second subframe while moving.
 21. A selfsupporting pipe handling machine for moving at least one oilfieldtubular with respect to a rig floor, said pipe handling machinecomprising: a carrier, wherein said carrier is configured to carry atleast one of a plurality of oilfield tubulars; a lift frame furthercomprising a first subframe and a second subframe, said lift frame atleast partially supporting said carrier; and one or more powered unitsfor raising and lowering at least a portion of said lift frame withrespect to said rig floor, wherein the first subframe and the secondsubframe are substantially aligned in a longitudinal direction when saidportion of lift frame is raised.
 22. The pipe handling machine of claim21, wherein said carrier is an elongate movable trough.
 23. The pipehandling machine of claim 21, wherein said carrier is a conveyor system.24. The pipe handling machine of claim 21, wherein said one or morepowered units are scissor lifts.